Microsoft completely reverses Xbox One policies, removes used games restrictions and will no longer require online checks every 24 hours

After Microsoft’s E3 press conference, the Xbox One got a lot of new nicknames: The Xbone, Xbox 359, or even the Xbox One-and-done. Now we can add a new nickname: the Xbox 180.

Microsoft executive Don Mattrick has announced on the official Microsoft blog that the Xbox One will no longer require online checks every 24 hours and will no longer restrict used games — which is, as you’ve probably guessed, a complete turnaround from their earlier announcements.

Here’s the official word:

“An internet connection will not be required to play offline Xbox One games – After a one-time system set-up with a new Xbox One, you can play any disc based game without ever connecting online again. There is no 24 hour connection requirement and you can take your Xbox One anywhere you want and play your games, just like on Xbox 360.

Trade-in, lend, resell, gift, and rent disc based games just like you do today – There will be no limitations to using and sharing games, it will work just as it does today on Xbox 360.

In addition to buying a disc from a retailer, you can also download games from Xbox Live on day of release. If you choose to download your games, you will be able to play them offline just like you do today. Xbox One games will be playable on any Xbox One console — there will be no regional restrictions.”

Because of these changes, the planned family sharing feature which would have enabled the sharing of a digital game library with up to 10 people has been cancelled. Also, disc-free gaming is once again limited to the digital download version of games. Basically, it’ll work much like the Xbox 360. Gamers outside of the US and other officially announced markets will be pleased to know that games will now be region free as well. However, it appears that the Kinect is still required for the Xbox One to function.

The announcement has been getting mixed reactions online with some angered by the news because they expected the Xbox One to be the “next step” in modern gaming or “save” the industry. Others are excited with the news that they will not have to deal with all the restrictions that would have prevented them from using the Xbox One or are simply happy that anti-consumer policies didn’t win out.